Amata and CODEL Visit U.S. Sailors While in Finland
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata visited U.S. Navy personnel in Finland last week and toured the USS Gunston Hall, as part of a Congressional Delegation that focused on veterans and military issues, and met with U.S. Ambassador to Finland Douglas Hickey and Finland Minister for Foreign Affairs Pekka Haavisto.
“Wherever I go, I find our people serving in uniform,” said Aumua Amata. “The USS Gunston Hall is no exception, as a sailor of Samoan heritage serves in an engineering capacity on board. The Gunston Hall was in the region engaged in naval exercises with Finnish forces. I appreciated touring the ship and learning of its role in keeping our fleet in fighting shape, and thank you to Commander Nelson for hosting us. Thank you also to Minister Haavisto and Ambassador Hickey for discussing this region of the world with us.”
Finland is the fourth of five nations visited by the CODEL in travel arranged through the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, on which Aumua Amata serves as Vice Ranking Member. Members of Congress honored U.S. Veterans and visited U.S. military personnel in several countries, along with meetings addressing such efforts as services to U.S. veterans abroad, national and allied security, and international cooperation on shared interests.
Congresswoman Amata spoke to some of the crew of the USS Gunston Hall.
Congresswoman Amata with Ambassador Hickey and Commander Elizabeth Nelson.
Speaking with Commander Nelson of the USS Gunston Hall.
The CODEL with Ambassador Hickey and US military aboard the ship.
The CODEL with Foreign Minister Haavisto and Ambassador Hickey.
Signs aboard the USS Gunston Hall: Defending the Constitution and Deck Stands Ready.
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